Can you learn carnival? “No”, says Bas van Oevelen from Bergen op Zoom determinedly. Nevertheless, he proudly tells about the brand new Vastenavend Akkedemie, which will start on Thursday in his hometown. “In this way we continue to generate enthusiasm among the youth.”
An education for celebrating carnival. Or better: Vastenavend, as they call it in Bergen op Zoom. Sounds like a joke, but they definitely don’t see it that way in the Krabbegat.
“We are starting the Akkedemie to teach people what the parade and building cars entail,” explains Van Oevelen. And that is vital for the survival of the party. “We benefit from enthusing new members to join the tradition.”
“There are people who really like technology, but don’t like being in a busy cafe.”
This new growth is also sought as widely as possible. “It is of course possible that people really like technology, but less like standing in a busy cafe. If you introduce them to Vastenavend, they may also want to contribute.”
The intention is that the carnival school will only expand further in the coming period. “We first focus on building the cars. And then, for example, the transition to sustainable construction with modern equipment, such as a 3D printer. But later, parts such as the music and making masks will also have to be added.”
The Vastenavend Akkedemie will be officially opened on Thursday. Appropriately. “It has a serious undertone and mission, but of course we dress it according to tradition. You could call it fun.”
